Should You Try Kaatsu?

One of the most common beliefs shared by the collective society falls on the idea that in order for a person to achieve an added muscle or a more buff kind of body, he or she must be able to undergo a heavy weight kind of training. But the good news is, today, you need not to conform to this kind of heavy weight training anymore because there has been a revolutionary fitness method that can help you gain muscles even if you are just using lightweight exercises. This new training is called Kaatsu.

This is a fitness training that started in Japan and which has gradually earned its distinction until it reached across Asia, Europe and America. In this article, you will know more about Kaatsu as well as learn some ways to maximize its effect on your body.

Kaatsu and Its History

Kaatsu comes from two Japanese words “ka” and “atsu” which means to add pressure. This is a fitness exercise that falls in the occlusion training category. An occlusion training is an exercise where a person is using a cuff (or a Kaatsu band for Kaatsu training) in order to block or impede the blood flow going through the veins.

You might think or feel that this is an unsafe measure but if this is done appropriately along with proper precautions, it can be safe and very beneficial. When the blood is being blocked, there is a tendency for lactic acid in that certain part of the muscles to accumulate. When, an increase of lactic acid in the muscle happens, it would cause a stimulation of an increase in muscle size thus resulting to the area getting more buffed.

Kaatsu and Japanese Athletes

A concrete example on the effect of this Kaatsu training is through the experience of Japanese athletes years ago. These athletes have undergone a vigorous training on Kaatsu which allowed them to have a better physique and toned body. Aside from the noticeable body transformation after months of training, it was found out that they had better performance in the sports field too which explains why they have been quite triumphant during sports competitions such as the Olympics.

How to Maximize Kaatsu’s Effect

According to fitness enthusiasts, in order to fully benefit from the effect of Kaatsu, you should perform strength training exercises or lift weights for at least twice a week. Being physically active on a fixed basis will allow your body to reap the health benefits of Kaatsu exercise or training. Also, you should never forget the use of Kaatsu belts or cuffs which are considered secret elements of this occlusion training. Just be sure that you follow the instructions on how to properly use these items and do not let these stay in your body for more than 5 minutes to avoid adverse effects.

BFR Bands is a home to high-quality occlusion bands for your gym training sessions. These bands are affordable, low cost and highly effective in occluding Kaatsu points all over the body.